China clamps down on illegal DTH

China is continuing to be especially tough on the ownership of unauthorised satellite dishes, especially in its Tibetan (Malho) prefecture in Qinghai province. A crackdown over the past few days has seen “hundreds” of dishes and receivers confiscated, according to Radio Free Asia.

Those found with the satellite equipment, which Tibetans have also used to listen to Radio Free Asia and Voice of America programmes, are given stiff fines, residents said. The region has seen a n umber of Tibetan self-immolations over the past months.

Chinese authorities are reportedly giving rewards to those who can pinpoint homes using the equipment. “If the satellite equipment is not surrendered, each family is fined 5,000 yuan (US $800). If anyone reports others holding back satellite and radio equipment to listen to foreign programs, they will be awarded 10,000 yuan,” a Tibetan in Rebgong told RFA’s Tibetan Service.